Aerospace
Deer Jet Exhibits 787 Dream Jet in the UK
BEIJING, May 9, 2017 /CNW/ — On 4th May, an airplane attracted many eyes in the UK. Deer Jet, a global leading business aviation company, is marking the European debut of the world’s first 787 “Dream Jet”, making a brief stop at London Stansted Airport (Harrods Aviation FBO) before continuing with the series of exhibitions “Dreams Encounter the World” across the globe.
This B787-8 Dream Jet is capable of flying non-stop for 18.5 hours, 16,000 kilometers, equivalent to London to Perth, Australia, non-stop.
The 787’s cabin pressure is set to 6,000 feet at the height of 30,000 feet. Tests have proved that between sea level and 6,000 feet people remain perfectly comfortable on board even on an 18-hour journey.
In May 2016, Deer Jet took over the operation of the world’s first BBJ 787 VVIP, and made its maiden flight to Hong Kong in September.
Deer Jet is also launching exclusive, bespoke travel packages aboard the 787 Dream Jet starting with the “Hong Kong to Tahiti Dream Journey”. It plans to add more itineraries in the future as part of its goal to create seamless travel to fulfill its vision of “Making travel an art”, through best-in-class service inspired by Deer Jet’s values of “elegance”, “performance” and “distinction”.
Frank Fang, Vice President of Deer Jet said: “We are delighted to bring this unique aircraft to London. Its showcases the signature service of Deer Jet which is inspired by the values of performance, elegance and distinction. Our goal is to provide the best flying experience for our customers and ‘make travel an art’.”
The aircraft is operated on the Guernsey aircraft registry (2-DEER), under the AOC of BAS Guernsey. Typically the aircraft resides at Hong Kong International Airport operated by Deer Jet’s subsidiary Hong Kong Jet. The price to charter the 787 Dream Jet, although previous reports said it should be around 20,000 pounds, actually is RMB 500,000 per hour (About GBP 55,000).
About Deer Jet
With 22 years of expertise, Deer Jet started as the first private jet company in China and has rapidly evolved into the largest business aviation group in Asia. The company operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of HNA Group, a Global Fortune 500 company and one of China’s most recognized and socially responsible brands. The company manages and operates an impressive fleet of 90 aircraft including the world’s only 787 Dream Jet.
Aerospace
India is set to build a central command for the Air Traffic Control system, called ISHAN
India’s air traffic growth has led to increased responsibilities for air traffic control. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is considering centralizing air traffic control for aircraft, dividing the country into four regions. The goal is to consolidate India’s segmented airspace into a single entity to improve air traffic management (ATM) efficiency, safety, and smoothness.
Recently, the AAI invited expressions of interest to develop a detailed project report for the Indian Single Sky Harmonized Air Traffic Management (ISHAN) initiative in Nagpur. Under this plan, air traffic controllers in Nagpur would handle domestic flights flying above 25,000 feet, eliminating the need for coordination among controllers in different regions.
For domestic regional flights operating above 25,000 feet, control would shift to the central command in Nagpur. This consolidation aims to enhance airline operations, increase flight handling capacity, and reduce congestion and flight times for passengers.
Currently, the AAI provides ATM services over Indian airspace and adjoining oceanic areas, covering over 2.8 million square nautical miles. This airspace is divided into four flight information regions (FIRs) in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai, along with a sub-FIR in Guwahati.
FIRs are responsible for providing air traffic services, including weather information, visibility, and search and rescue assistance. The proposed unification under the ISHAN initiative aligns with the projected growth of the aviation industry, which anticipates a doubling of domestic passenger traffic by 2030.
Aerospace
Does AirAsia show interest in Comac aircraft in the future?
Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, operating as AirAsia Group, recently paid a visit to the facilities of COMAC on April 2, 2024, and was thoroughly impressed by what he witnessed.
C919 already securing nearly 1000 orders
COMAC, known for its homegrown aircraft, has launched two promising jets: the ARJ21 and the C919 aircraft. Both aircraft are gaining popularity in the Chinese market, with the C919 already securing nearly 1000 orders from various airlines.
Fernandes expressed his admiration for COMAC’s achievements in aircraft manufacturing, acknowledging the immense challenge it entails. His visit underscored the realization that AirAsia now has a viable third option when it comes to selecting aircraft for its fleet.
During his tour, Fernandes was delighted by the innovation and technology evident in COMAC’s aircraft production and the company’s commitment to long-term partnerships.
He noted that many Western companies have shifted away from prioritizing loyalty and customer service, opting instead for short-term gains and a narrow definition of success.
Last month, COMAC embarked on an international tour, showcasing demonstration flights to neighboring countries, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia. Fernandes believes that the positive impression left by COMAC during his visit opens up new opportunities for collaboration.
Fernandes emphasized COMAC’s remarkable achievements
The shared values of loyalty, customer service, and long-term vision align closely with AirAsia’s ethos, making collaboration with COMAC appealing. With a focus on innovation and excellence, both companies stand to benefit from a partnership grounded in trust and a shared commitment to success.
Indonesia and China have already collaborated in validating and maintaining the airworthiness of the ARJ21 aircraft, indicating a solid foundation for future partnerships.
In his statement, Fernandes emphasized COMAC’s remarkable achievements and genuine desire for long-term partnership, highlighting the absence of ego and a genuine willingness to succeed together. He marveled at COMAC’s fully automated, AI-driven factory, a testament to their dedication to innovation and efficiency.
Fernandes criticized Western firms for prioritizing short-term gains over loyalty, customer service, and long-term strategy, emphasizing the importance of understanding customers’ needs and collaborating to achieve success.
Aerospace
Indigo will soon launch Air Taxi Service in India
InterGlobe Enterprises, the parent brand of IndiGo, is set to revolutionize travel in India with its upcoming air taxi service.
Scheduled for a potential launch in 2026, this innovative venture promises a seamless journey for passengers between two bustling hubs. Delhi and Gurgaon in Haryana. The forthcoming service is projected to revolutionize the daily commute, offering passengers a swift aerial journey covering the distance in a mere 7 minutes.
This remarkable efficiency contrasts starkly with the conventional 90-minute drive, underscoring the immense time-saving potential for commuters. The anticipated fare, ranging from Rs 2,000-3,000, makes this innovative mode of transport not only swift but also remarkably competitive in pricing.
At the heart of this ambitious endeavor lies a strategic partnership with Archer Aviation, a pioneer in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft technology. Under this collaboration, Archer will supply 200 state-of-the-art eVTOL aircraft, representing an investment of US$ 1 billion. These cutting-edge aircraft, capable of accommodating up to four passengers alongside the pilot, epitomize the future of sustainable air travel.
Powered by six battery packs, Archer’s eVTOL aircraft boast rapid charging capabilities, enabling a swift turnaround between flights. With a charging time of just 30-40 minutes, these eco-friendly aircraft ensure minimal downtime, maximizing operational efficiency.
Similar services are anticipated to be introduced by the joint venture in Bengaluru and Mumbai as well. Nevertheless, the service rollout period has not yet been made public by the company. Next year, it is anticipated to get its certification. Following this, the company will start the certification procedure with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).